Cape Town City Council Votes to Release Land for Affordable Housing
On Wednesday the City gave the green light for the release of land in Brackenfell, Wesfleur and Belhar
Release
Deputy Minister calls on South African thought leaders to drive solutions
Deputy Minister calls on South African thought leaders to drive solutions
Social Development Deputy Minister Ganief Hendricks has urged thought leaders and stakeholders to move beyond posing questions and instead contribute viable solutions towards fortifying South Africa’s social protection systems.
The Deputy Minister was speaking at the official launch of the Social Security Review Volume 2 held at the HSRC Head Office in Cape Town on Monday.
Held under the theme “Social Security in the Time of COVID-19,” the gathering in Cape Town brought together influential figures from government, academia, research, and civil society to reflect on the pandemic’s impact on social protection and discuss innovative ways to address the ongoing challenges.
The Deputy Minister acknowledged the collective efforts behind the publication, which is the result of collaboration among the Department of Social Development, the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), and independent experts and researchers.
Applauding their dedication, the Minister emphasised that the Social Security Review serves as a platform for independent critique and the examination of government interventions on crucial policy matters.
“Your work is essential for building an informed society that can hold policy decisions to account and ensure that they benefit every South African,” the Deputy Minister noted, urging them to continue their contributions.
Since its inaugural release in February 2022, the Social Security Review has become a critical resource, providing insights into the gaps exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The pandemic brought social protection to the forefront globally,” the Deputy Minister said, highlighting the world’s largest mobilisation of social protection measures seen to date.
However, he pointed out several gaps in South Africa’s own systems, including sparse coverage and data management for vulnerable groups, particularly unemployed adults, seasonal workers, and informal sector employees. These issues, he added, affect women most profoundly, as they are predominantly represented in insecure, informal work.
Hendricks underscored the urgency of addressing these gaps, given the clear benefits that an inclusive, comprehensive social protection system can offer. He argued that the experiences from COVID-19 made a compelling case for more lofty policies, including the Universal Basic Income Grant.
“Now is the time to begin serious national discussions on overdue policy choices, and this publication is essential as we work toward a resilient social security system,” he said, linking this to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s strategic focus on poverty reduction and managing the cost of living.
The Deputy Minister noted that evidence-based decision-making must guide social security reform, especially as South Africa looks towards its National Consultative Dialogue scheduled for December 16, where a united vision for the country’s social protection framework will be on the agenda.
“The capacity of social protection to reduce inequality and manage poverty is foundational to our nation’s stability,” he said, underscoring the important role of social security in promoting social cohesion and renewing the social contract with South Africans.
Highlighting the tangible impact of social assistance programmes, the Deputy Minister lauded South Africa’s achievements in poverty reduction since the dawn of democracy.
The country currently provides income support to over 18 million vulnerable individuals, including children, older persons, and people with disabilities. This was supplemented by the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, which began as a temporary measure in 2020 to aid over 8.5 million unemployed adults affected by the pandemic.
Hendricks said this network of social assistance acts as a lifeline in times of crisis and that “one cannot imagine the depths of poverty our people might have faced without these protections”.
The Deputy Minister shared that climate change and the economic aftershocks of COVID-19 are prompting a re-evaluation of South Africa’s social protection framework.
“We must build a modern, comprehensive, and shock-responsive system,” he said, adding that social protection reform is not just policy, it’s a constitutional mandate.
South Africa’s Constitution enshrines democratic values, social justice, human rights, and a commitment to quality of life for all citizens. Hendricks expressed optimism that continued collaboration with experts and academics will drive progress in these areas.
Hendricks extended his appreciation to the authors, editors, and reviewers whose contributions made the Social Security Review Volume 2 possible.
Their work, he said, will stimulate robust dialogue and help shape policies that support a more equitable future for South Africa. Officially launching the publication, he declared it a must-read for legislators, scholars, and all invested in South Africa’s prosperity. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Tue, 10/29/2024 - 10:59
26 views
President Ramaphosa Welcomes Preliminary General Elections Results in Mozambique
President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the release of preliminary results of the General Elections in Mozambique by the National Electoral Commission (CNE).
The general elections were held in Mozambique on 09 October 2024.
The Mozambican Constitutional Council is expected to validate and proclaim the electoral results in the next 14 days.
Based on the preliminary results, President Ramaphosa offers his warm congratulations to President-Elect Daniel Chapo and his party, FRELIMO.
President Ramaphosa commends the people of Mozambique for their active and enthusiastic participation in the elections, especially women who constituted 53 percent of the voters.
Similarly, President Ramaphosa applauds the CNE for the professional way in which they conducted the elections.
The President notes that these elections are historic since they were held 32 years following the signing of the General Peace Agreement (GPA), which brought an end to the civil war and introduced multi-party democracy in Mozambique.
President Ramaphosa has also expressed concern about the ongoing post-election violence and the deaths of Messrs. Elvino Dias and Paulo Guambe and other people who have lost their lives.
President Ramaphosa conveys his deepest condolences to the Government of the Republic of Mozambique and the families of the deceased.
President Ramaphosa reiterates the call made by various leaders in Mozambique to the law enforcement agencies to speedily investigate these incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Furthermore, President Ramaphosa calls for calm and restraint and urges all the disaffected parties to exhaust the established legal remedies to resolve their election grievances.
President Ramaphosa remains committed to strengthening the historic and fraternal relations between South Africa and Mozambique as well as consolidation of peace and security to enable the country to fully realise its potential for development.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.
President welcomes release of preliminary election results in Mozambique
President welcomes release of preliminary election results in Mozambique
President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the release of the preliminary results of the general elections in Mozambique by the National Electoral Commission (CNE).
The general elections were held in Mozambique on 09 October 2024.
The Mozambican Constitutional Council is expected to validate and proclaim the electoral results in the next 14 days.
The Presidency said on Sunday that, based on the preliminary results, President Ramaphosa offered his warm congratulations to President-Elect Daniel Chapo and his party, FRELIMO.
President Ramaphosa commended the people of Mozambique for their active and enthusiastic participation in the elections, especially women who constituted 53 percent of the voters.
Similarly, President Ramaphosa applauded the CNE for the professional way in which they conducted the elections.
“The President notes that these elections are historic since they were held 32 years following the signing of the General Peace Agreement (GPA), which brought an end to the civil war and introduced multi-party democracy in Mozambique,” said the Presidency.
It said President Ramaphosa has expressed concern about the ongoing post-election violence and the deaths of Elvino Dias and Paulo Guambe and other people who have lost their lives.
The President conveyed his deepest condolences to the Government of the Republic of Mozambique and the families of the deceased.
“President Ramaphosa reiterates the call made by various leaders in Mozambique to the law enforcement agencies to speedily investigate these incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“Furthermore, President Ramaphosa calls for calm and restraint and urges all the disaffected parties to exhaust the established legal remedies to resolve their election grievances,” said the Presidency.
President Ramaphosa remains committed to strengthening the historic and fraternal relations between South Africa and Mozambique as well as consolidation of peace and security to enable the country to fully realise its potential for development. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 10/27/2024 - 12:59
133 views
R66-Million Spent on Water Schemes but These Villagers’ Taps Are Still Dry
Yet water projects in Ngcobo are signed off as completed and successful
DWS inspects water infrastructure in North West
DWS inspects water infrastructure in North West
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister Sello Seitlholo will today assess the conditions of water and waste water treatment infrastructure in the North West following the recent detection of the cholera causing bacterium in raw water.
The Deputy Minister will begin his programme by meeting with various stakeholders at the Lekwa-Teemane Council Chambers in Bloemhof. He will then proceed to site inspection visits at Bloemhof Dam, Christiana Waste Water Treatment Works and the Bloemhof Water Treatment Works.
“The Deputy Minister will meet different stakeholders and the Executive Mayors of Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati, Francis Baard and Pixley ka Seme District Municipalities to assess their progress in implementing recommendations made by the department to comply with the required standards of effluent before it is discharged into water courses.
“He will also assess the conditions of the water treatment works and waste water treatment plants in Bloemhof and Christiana, under Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District,” the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) said.
The department recently issued a warning about the presence of cholera bacteria in raw water along the Harts and Vaal rivers following a routine raw water sampling at five monitoring sites, namely, Wentzel dam, Schweizer Reneke, Christiana, Barkley West Caravan Park, and Douglas Weir.
The presence of environmental non-toxic cholera (Vibrio cholerae) has also been confirmed at Wentzel Dam in Harts River near Schweizer Reneke and Pampierstad.
The department has identified the possible pollution sources to be from the discharge of wastewater treatment works effluent into the rivers.
Seitlholo will also release the latest report following the tests that were conducted at the water courses. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 10/24/2024 - 10:05
409 views
National Treasury explains details of GFECRA settlement agreement
National Treasury explains details of GFECRA settlement agreement
The National Treasury has sought to clarify the details of the Gold and Foreign Exchange Contingency Reserve Account's (GFECRA) new settlement agreement.
In the 2024 Budget Review, Treasury announced a reform to the settlement framework for the GFECRA.
The Minister of Finance and the Governor of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) signed a new GFECRA settlement agreement in June 2024.
The agreement allocates funds across three “buckets,” with the first bucket being allocated to GFECRA to retain sufficient funds to absorb exchange rate swings.
“Failure to do so would create an obligation for the National Treasury to cover exchange rate losses. In terms of the agreement, a R250 billion distribution will be made from the GFECRA.
“Of this amount R100 billion was paid into a second bucket for the SARB contingency reserve account, to ensure the central bank’s solvency and to pay sterilisation costs to neutralise the interest rate impact,” National Treasury said on Tuesday.
The balance of R150 billion will be paid to the National Treasury in tranches of R100 billion (2024/25), R25 billion (2025/26) and R25 billion (2026/27).
“This will be used to reduce government’s borrowing and therefore the growth in the stock of debt. The impact of the GFECRA settlement on the budget was presented in Table 7.2 of the Budget Review – financing of national government gross borrowing requirement – and disclosed over the medium-term as a balance sheet transaction reducing the borrowing requirement.
“The treatment of the transaction will remain the same in the 2024 Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS), as well as in future budget publications. The distribution from GFECRA (R250 billion) is recorded as a return on an investment, which is a balance sheet transaction.
“This is not recorded as revenue of government. Funds are paid from the SARB into governments bank account (the National Revenue Fund) and from this account the cash is used to pay government’s commitments and to provide for the contribution to the SARB contingency reserve account (as required in terms of GFECRA Defrayal Amendment Act, Act no 27 of 2024),” National Treasury said.
Flow of funds
To comply with both the requirements of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), Act no 1 of 1999 and the GFECRA Defrayal Amendment Act, Act no 27 of 2024, the flow of funds for the SARB contingency reserve account of R100 billion, requires a payment into and withdrawal from the National Revenue Fund (NRF – the bank account of government).
“However, this does not imply that the amount is recognised as revenue, as it remains a balance sheet flow. In other words, government converts the GFECRA investment into cash (in the NRF), which is then used to fund the SARB contingency reserve. All these transactions are recorded on the balance sheet.
“In the monthly Statement of National Governments’ Revenue, Expenditure and Borrowing published in terms of section 32 of the PFMA, the cash flow position of government is presented in tables 1 to 4 of the release.
“In these tables, which presents the flows into and withdrawals from the bank account (NRF) of government, the R200 billion received from the SARB is shown as Exchequer revenue (the cash receipt) and the payment to the SARB as a departmental requisition of R100 billion,” National Treasury said.
This means that R200 billion in cash from an investment was received into the bank account of government, of which R100 billion was requisitioned by the Department of the National Treasury to contribute to the SARB Contingency Reserve Account.
“The balance of R100 billion remains as a positive balance that is used to reduce the gross borrowing requirement. Reducing the borrowing requirement implies that government is using the cash to borrow less, as is required in terms of the GFECRA settlement agreement.
“The Budget of government is presented on the adjusted cash basis of accounting. Revenue and expenditure are recorded when transactions are initiated in the cashbook, in other words when a transaction is processed in the financial system,” National Treasury said.
The monthly budget comparable revenue and expenditure information is published in the summary statement of the section 32 report.
“This format mirrors the presentation of the 2024 Budget, which remains as the budget presentation for the 2024 MTBPS and future budget publications. In this table the cash flows of government are recorded as part of Changes in cash and other balances, which includes the net inflow of R100 billion (R200 billion in exchequer receipts less R100 billion in departmental requisitions) recorded in the cash flow statement.
“To ensure transparency in reporting the GFECRA settlement arrangement, the R100 billion set aside to reduce governments’ borrowing requirement is shown separately as part of the calculation of the gross borrowing requirement. This is in line with the presentation of the transaction at the time of the 2024 Budget, and this presentation format will remain both in the 2024 MTBPS and future budgets,” National Treasury said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 10/22/2024 - 14:38
200 views
Dr Tito Mboweni remembered as a trailblazer
Dr Tito Mboweni remembered as a trailblazer
President Cyril Ramaphosa has lauded the late former Minister of Finance Tito Mboweni as a man who understood the assignment, describing him as a trailblazer who has left an enduring legacy in South Africa's public and economic spheres.
The President delivered the eulogy at Mboweni’s Special Official Funeral Category 2 at the Nkowankowa stadium in Limpopo on Saturday.
Mboweni, who was the first Labour Minister in democratic South Africa passed away last week following a short illness at the age of 65.
He was fondly known by names like Comrade Tito, Uncle Tito, erstwhile National Breadwinner, unpaid impresario for Lucky Star and The Duke of Magoebaskloof.
Acknowledging the deep pain of the loss, the President expressed the nation's shared grief with the Mboweni family stating “we are all feeling the pain together with you."
The President spoke movingly about Mboweni’s enduring legacy, describing him as a servant leader whose contributions to South Africa spanned his roles as a freedom fighter, businessman, central banker, and politician.
“Comrade Tito, you understood the assignment. As we bid you farewell my brother, my comrade, my fellow fly fisherman, your legacy is of a successful transformation from a freedom fighter to a businessman, central banker and politician. You were a true servant leader, admired and loved by the people. You delivered on what was required of you,” the President said.
As South Africa's first black Reserve Bank Governor and former Minister of Finance, Mboweni's contributions to economic transformation and fiscal discipline were transformative, President Ramaphosa noted.
“He oversaw the modernisation of the Reserve Bank, introduced inflation targeting, and convened the bank’s first monetary policy committee meetings. He championed economic transformation, just as he championed fiscal discipline and evidence-based policymaking.
“To keep the citizenry abreast on economic policy matters, he introduced a televised monetary policy statement. Later, as Minister of Finance, he undertook one of the most difficult of roles. It requires someone of mettle. It requires an ability to take difficult decisions and to withstand extreme pressure,” the President said.
Mboweni's legacy also extended to his groundbreaking work as the first Minister of Labour, where he played a key role in passing labour laws that restored dignity to workers. The president acknowledged that these policies fundamentally transformed the labour relations landscape in South Africa.
President Ramaphosa fondly recalled Mboweni's use of a potted Aloe Ferox plant during his budget speeches, a symbol of South Africa’s resilience in difficult times.
“We remember how he would dramatically bring a potted Aloe Ferox plant to his Budget speeches to illustrate his approach to fiscal discipline. Through the Aloe Ferox he sought to illustrate that like our country, the Aloe Ferox survives and thrives when times are tough.
“We continue to admire how he always sought to demystify matters of the economy for our citizens. He insisted that government must communicate with the people on how the economic decisions we take impact their lives.”
As Finance Minister, Mboweni faced numerous challenges but remained steadfast in his commitment to pragmatic fiscal management while advancing economic reforms through initiatives like Operation Vulindlela.
Connection with the youth
Mboweni’s remarkable connection with the younger generation was also highlighted, with the President pointing to his popularity on social media and the release of a chart-topping rap song named after him.
“Who, but Uncle Tito, could have a chart-topping rap song titled with his name? Who, but the Duke of Magoebaskloof, could share tips with 1.5 million followers on the best curry powder to cook a chicken with and impart economic education at the same time?” President Ramaphosa remarked.
The President noted that the younger generation, some of whom were his social media followers, “have a delightful phrase: understanding the assignment.”
“Loosely deciphered it means knowing what must be done and doing it well,” he said.
READ | Reflecting on Dr Tito Mboweni's life
Serving with dedication
The President underscored Mboweni’s dedication to integrity and service, saying that his reputation remained untarnished despite holding high office.
“You acquitted yourself with dignity and with honour in the ANC [African National Congress], in government and beyond. You depart this world with that dignity, that honour and that reputation intact.
“You did not disgrace or betray your movement or the people of this country. You were a credit and an asset to both. This is the most we can hope for as leaders. This is the highest we should aspire to.
“Like Tito, we should strive to be true servant leaders. We should each aspire to do everything that our country asks of us. Fare well, Mkonto. Rest in eternal peace,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Sat, 10/19/2024 - 15:05
83 views
Social Grant Fraud: Sassa Needs to Act
Instead of wrongly accusing us of illegal hacking, SASSA should take urgent action to fix the extremely serious problems we described
Lottery Spent Over R1-Million on Lawfare
Attacks were also launched on the integrity of our reporter
Mpumalanga municipalities called to address pollution of water sources
Mpumalanga municipalities called to address pollution of water sources
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, Sello Seitlholo, has called for immediate intervention to address the poor state of wastewater infrastructure, water quality and pollution of water sources in some parts of Mpumalanga.
Seitlholo made the call during an oversight visit to Msukaligwa and Lekwa Local Municipalities, where he inspected the Ermelo Wastewater Treatment Works, De Vereeniging Farm and the Vaal River in Ermelo and Standerton, respectively.
The inspection took place on Tuesday and was supported by the Gert Sibande District Municipality Mayor, Walter Mngomezulu, and Msukaligwa Local Municipality Mayor, Precious Nkosi.
The Deputy Minister expressed his dissatisfaction with the local municipalities’ sense of urgency in addressing the challenges relating to wastewater management.
“I do understand that there could be financial constraints impeding some of the work that should be done. But I sense that people are moving at a snail’s pace to address challenges that impact on the provision of good quality water as well as the pollution of our water sources.
“South Africa is a water-scarce country and for this reason, we need to act fast to ensure that we address matters relating to water infrastructure, and this also includes wastewater infrastructure management,” Seitlholo said.
Seitlholo noted that part of his delegated responsibility in the Ministry of Water and Sanitation is to contribute to finding solutions to the challenges that have an impact on water quality in several water sources across the country.
“It is for this reason that we recently launched the Vaal River Anti-Pollution Forum to ensure that we bring the quality of raw water in the Vaal River System back to acceptable standards for abstraction purposes. I am championing the forum and believe me, we will not hesitate to hold accountable those who continue to release raw sewage into our water sources,” Seitlholo warned.
He said the department was engaging municipalities to get their corrective action plans and ensure a speedy implementation.
The Deputy Minister said the department would continue to open criminal cases against the municipalities if they fail to implement the corrective measures needed.
“It is our duty, and in the interest of South Africans, we have to make sure that our water resources are of good quality as far as pollution is concerned. Through the cases, we will also enforce compliance of the corrective action plans,” he said.
Seitlholo also called on residents to practice active citizenry by taking an active stand against the pollution of water sources.
“All of us have a role to play to safeguard our precious water resources. Residents should also stop dumping foreign objects into rivers, it is unacceptable and irresponsible.
“South Africans must heed the call and sound the alarm on water pollution. Our water resources, particularly our raw water in the Vaal River system, is deeply polluted and we all need to take corrective measures to improve the state of our raw water source,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 10/16/2024 - 14:01
374 views
Lottery Spent R1.5-Million on “Lawfare” to Try to Stop Minister Ebrahim Patel’s Anti-corruption Battle
For years, costly and sustained litigation funded by public money was launched against Patel
How Bureaucracy Prevents People From Getting Houses
Supply isn’t coming close to meeting the demand for state-subsidised housing
Court Bid to Decriminalise Sex Work
The laws “have not deterred … the selling or buying of sex … and are not rationally capable of doing so. They merely create greater stigma and vulnerability among sex workers and violate their rights”.
Joburg’s Water Woes Are Self-Inflicted
The temporary shutdown of the supply from Lesotho is not the problem
Interview: Western Cape Premier Alan Winde Answers Questions on Social Housing
Winde explains why R500-million meant for housing went unspent
President Ramaphosa reiterates call for peace and immediate ceasefire in Gaza
President Ramaphosa reiterates call for peace and immediate ceasefire in Gaza
President Cyril Ramaphosa has used his weekly newsletter on Monday to once again call for an “immediate ceasefire that will end the suffering of the people of Gaza”.
This as the world marks one year since conflict escalated between Israel and Hamas which has led to mass deaths, intense suffering and violence.
“Today marks one year since the start of an onslaught against the Palestinian people that has thus far claimed more than 43 000 lives. The violence that has been committed by Israel against Palestinians over many decades intensified after an attack on Israel by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups on 7 October last year.
“As South Africa, we remain committed to the peaceful resolution to ending the occupation of Palestine, to upholding the tenets of international law and to advancing social justice. We once again call for an immediate ceasefire that will end the suffering of the people of Gaza and allow for humanitarian aid to reach those in need,” he said.
The President added that South Africa condemned the “atrocities committed against civilians in Israel on 7 October 2023, as we have denounced the killing of civilians in any context”.
“More than 1000 Israelis were killed in the attacks of 7 October last year. Over 100 Israelis remain in captivity in Gaza. There are over 6000 Palestinians who are languishing in Israeli jails.
“As South Africa, we have consistently called for a resolution to the conflict and the release of all the hostages abducted on 7 October 2023. We have also called for the release of all the prisoners unlawfully detained in Israel.
“We cannot but be moved by the plight of all the families who have loved ones in captivity. With negotiations to secure their release having once again stalled and Israel’s bombardment of Gaza continuing, the conflict shows no signs of abating,” he said.
Escalating tensions
President Ramaphosa highlighted that while several calls for a ceasefire echoed around the world, tensions in the Middle East have heightened.
“Amid efforts by the international community to secure a ceasefire, the situation has been worsened by strikes by Israel on Lebanon and by Iran on Israel. Israel has vowed to retaliate against Iran and Iran has threatened to respond accordingly.
“The escalating situation in the Middle East is of grave concern. It threatens to plunge the region into a war in which civilians will inevitably bear the greatest and the most cruel brunt of this conflict. As the UN Secretary-General has said, each escalation after the next is leading the people of the Middle East over the cliff,” he said.
He warned that the global community cannot afford a long-standing conflict in that region of the world.
“A protracted regional conflict that leads to the loss of more innocent lives is something the Middle East and the world cannot afford. We call on all parties to exercise restraint and for the tenets of international law to be respected.
“Just as the countries of the world need to work together to ensure that this conflict is not allowed to spread, the international community must be seized with efforts to end the violence against Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank,” he said.
The knock-on effect, the President said, has had a devastating effect on civilians in the area.
“Beyond an immediate end to the onslaught against Gaza, there is an urgent need for action to stave off starvation and disease among the population. Considerable resources need to be directed to Gaza to start rebuilding infrastructure, housing, social services, agricultural production and economic activity,” President Ramaphosa said.
He revealed that South Africa will file a memorial with the International Court of Justice to hold all those responsible in the conflict to account.
“In our address to the UN General Assembly last month, we called for international law to be applied consistently in holding to account all who have committed atrocities in this conflict, whether it is Israel or Hamas.
“Later this month, we will file a memorial, which is South Africa’s full substantive case based on evidence, at the International Court of Justice. The memorial contains detailed evidence to prove that Israel is committing the crime of genocide in Palestine. We call on Israel to immediately implement the court’s provisional orders issued on 26 January, 28 March 2024 and 24 May 2024,” President Ramaphosa said.
The President insisted that the reality is that the escalating conflict “is part of a pattern of violence that spans more than half a century resulting from the occupation of Palestine”.
“Until the occupation is ended and a just and lasting solution is found that will protect the rights of both Israelis and Palestinians, the region will remain a tinderbox of potential conflict and war.
“Israel has consistently declared that it aspires to live in peace and security with its neighbours. Yet its military occupation of the Syrian Golan Heights since 1967 and its invasions of Lebanon in 1978, 1982 and 2006 undermine this aspiration.
“As a country we will continue to play our part in supporting all efforts to bring peace to the troubled Middle East region and to secure a just, lasting solution that ends the occupation of Palestine,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 10/07/2024 - 09:32
35 views
Rooigevaar in Saldanha
But Transnet says the dust falls below legal limits
Inmates ready for upcoming National Senior Certificate exams
Inmates ready for upcoming National Senior Certificate exams
Matriculants from Correctional Services schools are fully prepared for the upcoming National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, set to run from 21 October to 27 November 2024.
A total of 173 inmates will sit for these exams, marking an important step in their pursuit of a Senior Certificate.
In a statement, the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) said it was pleased with the level of preparedness, as inmates have completed the academic syllabus on time and have undergone various assessments throughout the year.
Educators from the department's 18 schools remain optimistic, having made significant efforts to ensure that all candidates are thoroughly prepared.
Additionally, the department ensured that all required textbooks and stationery were delivered to schools timeously.
Correctional Services National Commissioner Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale has praised the educators for their dedication and hard work in preparing the inmates for this important milestone.
“Education not only empowers offenders with knowledge but also offers them a path to a new life. It remains our commitment to provide growth and development opportunities for every inmate, as we believe in the power of education to transform lives,” he said.
Formal education plays a crucial role in rehabilitating offenders while they are in correctional centres.
In collaboration with the Department of Basic Education, DCS has consistently produced strong academic results, often exceeding the national pass rate.
In 2023, DCS schools achieved an impressive 93% overall pass rate, with nine schools attaining a 100% pass rate.
READ | Correctional Services class of 2023 achieves 93.2% pass rate
The department attributed the results to the conducive learning environment it fosters within correctional centres, as well as its commitment to providing offenders with education and skills that will help them reintegrate into society after their release.
The department has also embraced technological advancements in education. In 2024, the Intelsat Telematics System was introduced at the Johannesburg Correctional Centre, offering both inmates and educators access to valuable study materials.
The department is proud to maintain an incident-free record for NSC examinations, reflecting the professionalism and dedication of the officials, as well as the strict adherence to exam protocols set by the Department of Basic Education.
“We encourage all matriculants in our schools to seize this opportunity as part of their personal development journey,” Thobakgale concluded.
READ | Countdown to final exams for Class of 2024
– SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Thu, 10/03/2024 - 09:56
131 views
TNPA initiates RFI for Multi-Purpose Terminal at Mossel Bay
TNPA initiates RFI for Multi-Purpose Terminal at Mossel Bay
Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has initiated a request for information process for a Multi-Purpose Terminal (MPT) at the Port of Mossel Bay’s Quay 4 precinct.
The Request for Information (RFI) calls on interested parties to submit proposals to design, develop, finance, maintain and operate an MPT at Quay 4 where breakbulk as well as oil and gas cargo is currently handled.
With installed capacity of 86 000 tons of breakbulk cargo per annum and a 2040 m² shed, the berth boasts flexibility to handle cargo by mobile cranes or ship gear.
The RFI seeks to gauge interest on how TNPA can be responsive to market demand and attract the appropriate operator to develop and operate the envisaged Multi-Purpose Terminal at the ports authority’s oldest commercial seaport.
“Our engagements with the agricultural sector, shipping agents and local cargo owners have assisted in providing insight into the type of cargo that can be moved at the envisaged Multi-Purpose Terminal,” said Captain Vania Cloete.
Cloete is the acting TNPA Port Manager for the Port of Mossel Bay in the Western Cape.
“The RFI is the first step towards the pursuit of expanding port operations at Quay 4 beyond the current maritime commercial activities and small-scale multi-purpose operation we currently facilitate in this facility,” Cloete said.
RFI documents can be accessed from the National Treasury’s e-tender publication portal www.etender.gov.za and/or the Transnet website: www.transnet.net.
Responses to the RFI must be submitted by no later than 29 November 2024 at 4pm.
After receiving and reviewing RFI responses, TNPA may release a Request for Proposals provided that sufficient information is obtained from the RFI submissions. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 10/02/2024 - 12:11
288 views
Housing Activists Welcome City’s Intention to Develop Mowbray Golf Course
For years Reclaim the City and Ndifuna Ukwazi have been calling for leased golf courses to rather be used for social housing
Thousands of Birds Rescued by West Coast Owl Orphanage
The birds of prey rehabilitation centre in Velddrif has gone from strength to strength but challenges remain
Weather Service warns of severe weather conditions
Weather Service warns of severe weather conditions
The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has encouraged the public to remain vigilant as the upcoming months of October and November could be affected by heatwaves, severe storms and the possibility of damaging winds.
Addressing a media briefing on Tuesday in Pretoria, SAWS Senior Manager: Disaster Risk Management, Rudzani Malala, said the highveld region, which encompasses the northern Free State, Gauteng and the eastern highveld of Mpumalanga, is well known to be associated with severe storms and the possibility of damaging winds.
“Moreover, given the expectation of a relatively hot summer over much of the country, communities should also be mindful of the likelihood of sustained spells of hot, dry weather, as well as the possibility of heatwaves. During such events, the aged, infirm, as well as infants and toddlers are particularly susceptible to dehydration.
“The SAWS therefore strongly recommends that everyone take care to stay hydrated and to support and assist the elderly and small children at such times. It is an unfortunate but well-documented reality that heatwaves often lead to numerous fatalities, if no mitigative steps are taken,” Malala said.
He explained that South Africa experiences varying weather conditions in different seasons, due to its unique geographical location and set up.
“The two distinct oceans surrounding the country, i.e. the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, play a significant role that influences the typical weather conditions that we experience from season to season.
“The uniqueness of South Africa is such that at one end of the country, the public may experience extreme cold temperatures, whilst at the other end, communities may experience hot temperatures,” Malala said.
During the recent onset of this year’s 2024 spring, many South Africans experienced very hot conditions, with some parts experiencing heatwave conditions. However, the onset of a cold frontal system and a cut-off low system changed everything,” he said.
Snow events
Malala said the extremely cold conditions and snow event of 19 - 22 September 2024, that wreaked havoc on roads between the Free State, KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape were accurately predicted by the Weather Service.
SAWS also issued a preemptive media release on the event of the past weekend, which warned of a drop in temperature and light snow conditions.
At the time, SAWS noted that the system was significantly different from the previous snow event, hence its impact was not as significant as the snow event of 19 – 22 September 2024.
“Snow in later winter and early spring is not unusual or rare at all. In fact, the more intense, extreme snow systems tend to affect southern Africa in very late winter, especially over the eastern provinces. We have even had snow in Johannesburg as late as October 2011.
“Snow is a phenomenon not restricted to winter months. On rare occasions (three times in the past century), snow has occurred on New Year’s Day in KwaZulu-Natal's Drakensburg [region],” Malala said.
In the study of Stander et al. 2016, snow events over South Africa during the period of 1981 to 2011 were investigated.
“In this study, 60 significant snow events were identified, with strong seasonality in the frequency of occurrence of these snow events. These events occurred from March (just more than 5%), through to October (less than 5%).
“The months of June and July had the highest frequency of significant snow events (25% and about 35% respectively), whilst August accounts for just less than 20% and September just less than 15% of significant snow events,” SAWS Lead Scientist, Dr Christien Engelbrecht, said.
From the historical view of the frequency of occurrence of significant snowfall events, Engelbrecht said it can be seen that snowfall in the month of September is not rare.
“[The] 19 - 21 September 2008 heavy snowfall necessitated roads to be closed in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. Significant snow events have occurred in the month of October, although not frequently,” she said. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 10/01/2024 - 12:19
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South African woman arrested for drug trafficking at OR Tambo
South African woman arrested for drug trafficking at OR Tambo
A 21-year-old South African woman has been arrested for drug trafficking at the OR Tambo International (ORTIA) Airport.
This is the 11th drug mule to be arrested at the airport in a period of two months.
“The drug mule was profiled and intercepted as she was arriving on a flight from São Paulo, Brazil, on Sunday morning, just before 9am. She was taken to a local hospital where an X-ray confirmed that she had foreign objects in her stomach,” said the police in a statement.
The woman has already released a number of bullets from her body and is in police custody where they are closely monitoring the release of further drug bullets. The process is still unfolding, said SAPS.
National Commissioner of the Police, General Fannie Masemola, commended the vigilance of members of SARS and SAPS at the airport.
“Our men and women in blue working closely with SARS customs and various stakeholders continue to assert the authority of the state at all our ports of entry.
“We appreciate the hard work and dedication of our members and urge them to do more to squeeze the space for criminals. Drug traffickers are feeling the heat and there is nowhere to hide,” said Masemola.
Every week in the last month, SAPS and SARS customs, immigration and the Border Management Authority (BMA) have been intercepting drug traffickers at OR Tambo International Airport.
On Sunday, 22 September 2024, a 30-year-old Namibian drug mule was arrested after arriving from São Paulo.
She too was taken for medical examination and released more than 60 drug bullets. She has already appeared in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on a charge of dealing in drugs.
On Friday, 13 September 2024, a Nigerian drug mule was arrested after he was found in possession of cocaine that was concealed in aircraft head phones. He had just landed from São Paulo.
He has already appeared before the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on a charge of dealing in drugs. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Mon, 09/30/2024 - 09:55
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